How to Inherit and Evolve Existing DNA

Eco-friendly technologies continued to evolve and accelerate this year. The emergence of clean diesel engines compliant with Japanese regulations led to an increase in diesel models, and plug-in hybrids, distinct from conventional hybrids, were also added to catalogs. Mitsubishi's Outlander even won the Innovation Award at this year's Japan Car of the Year for its technological prowess.
Meanwhile, gasoline engines are not to be outdone. Volkswagen'sGolfmodels, exemplified by the "downsizing" trend, have improved fuel efficiency while reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It's astonishing that the Golf is equipped with a 1.2-liter engine, a displacement smaller than the first generation's carbureted engine.
Another notable arrival is Tesla'sModel SThis, Tesla's second model, is a four-door EV. Its standout feature is undoubtedly its range, with the top-grade model capable of traveling 500 kilometers. Tesla actually conducted a test drive from Tokyo to Kyoto, and reportedly completed the distance with ease, even with real-world traffic congestion.
The true brilliance of the Tesla Model S doesn't end there. Sitting in the cockpit, the dashboard is astonishing: it features a monitor equivalent to two iPads. Naturally, operation is via touchscreen, controlling everything from Google searches to vehicle settings. It's the kind of experience that makes you exclaim, "Is this the new era?"
Against this backdrop, what personally caught my attention was the inheritance of tradition. While the announcement of new models with cutting-edge technology is exciting, I feel that the challenge for car manufacturers lies in how they inherit and evolve their existing DNA. There's a need for efforts to ensure that brand names and model names don't feel dated in the market.
I believe the five cars selected here are models that meet such expectations. The Range Rover, the G-Class, and the Golf all fit this description. AndBentleyand Volvo are similar in terms of brand identity. These vehicles have all evolved beyond my personal expectations. While I'll omit the details, each one has been crafted into a car that is genuinely enjoyable to drive.
With the evolution of eco-friendly technology and its widespread adoption across the industry, the value of cars is being re-evaluated. Tools are tools, and luxury items are luxury items. Recently, Japanese manufacturers have finally begun to create things that feel like "luxury items." Considering this, it's possible that a domestic car might be among these five selections next year. Such anticipation is also a wonderful thing.

Tatsuya Kushima's Top 5 Recommended Cars for OPENERS Readers in 2013